The Ancoats project involved the creation of a pedestrian-friendly public space in the east of Manchester. The judges’ commented: ‘This is a simple yet engaging idea which will encourage the public to connect with the site and uncover the area’s secrets. Overall the project provides clarity, texture and imagination in the public realm and a highly appropriate response to context.’ Camlin Lonsdale Landscape Architects, Llangadfan

The project at Blackpool created George Bancroft Park (Phase 1), the first new public green space for Blackpool. Judges’ comments: ‘The panel recognised the complex and demanding challenges of the site and applauded the landscape architects (EDAW) for their interpretation of the brief and their understanding of the site’s role in both a global and local scale.’

It was good to see that after what has been a difficult year for many in the landscape sector the mood at the awards and for the future was extremely optimistic.